11-17-2009
• arclein
But in the decades since, the population decline that spurred the plan not only continued, but accelerated. The already-stressed Ogallala Aquifer, the sole source of water for much of the region, has dried up faster than anticipated. Irrigated farmland has become dry, low-production farmland. Local economies of the high plains have dwindled.
Today, Buffalo Commons — far from threatening an iconic American lifestyle — may instead be a savior to the region.